Exploring Aruba: Beach & Sea

I never thought a beach day could be so much fun! With some of my new friends (freshly met during the tour to the Lighthouse) we decided to go to the most famous beach of the Island: Palm Beach, and do some super cool activities from jet-ski, snorkeling, sunbathing, volleyball, sailing, and much more! You won’t have time to get bored! Be very welcome to the funniest Island: Aruba!

With its unbeatable beaches and constant sunshine, it should come as no surprise that Aruba is the most visit island in the Dutch Caribbean.

I never thought a beach day could be so much fun! With some of my new friends (freshly met during the tour to the Lighthouse) we decided to go to the most famous beach of the Island: Palm Beach, and do some super cool activities from jet-ski, snorkeling, sunbathing, volleyball, sailing, and much more! You won’t have time to get bored! Be very welcome to the funniest Island: Aruba!

This Island is one of the flattest (that’s right: almost no mountains here) and desert of the Caribbean (you will not find much fauna, vegetation or any Rainforest like in Dominica or Grenada with exception of the divi-divi tree), however it’s one of the best Island to receive tourists as they have a huge beach coast (and the very well-known Palm Beach area) full of Resorts, Hotels, restaurants, bars, and provides a lot of underwater and aquatic activities.

Whether you are a family or a couple looking for adventure and enjoying some fun together, this is definitely the place to be!

Aruba: Dutch Caribbean

While native tribes from Venezuela flocked to Aruba as early as 1000 A.D., Europeans did not discover the island until 1499, with the explorations of Amerigo Vespucci and Alonso de Ojeda. After years of colonial rule, it was not until 1986 that Aruba became its own country, although it still remains a Dutch protectorate. Aruba is one of the 3 islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao) belonging to the Kingdom of the Netherlands however as they are independent they are not members of the EU.

What To Do, Eat, Shop

What To Do: Known for its stunning beaches, Aruba impresses with treasures both in the sea and on land. Indeed, most of Aruba’s visitor come seeking one thing: its legendary beaches. Palm Beach, with its white sand and blue water has made countless magazine “best beaches of the world” lists. If you want to do more than just kick back and sunbathe, recreational options here also include sailing and fishing. In addition to Palm Beach, the Turquoise Coast (which runs along Aruba’s western and southern beaches) is also home to the quieter Eagle Beach, further away from the hotel zone.

The California Lighthouse: While Aruba’s beaches are perhaps the biggest draw, various sights in the area paint a picture of the history of the surrounding waters. The California Lighthouse is named after the steamship California, which sank off the coast of Aruba in 1891, but the legacy lives on in this silent sentry. From the lighthouse (built in 1910), you will have plenty of time to admire stunning island views.

Oranjestad: Aruba’s Capital and largest port, offers the best shopping experience on its main street and it’s also known for its impressive Dutch Colonial architecture.

The Antilla Shipwreck: The 400-foot Antilla is one of the Caribbean’s largest shipwrecks and also one of its most popular attractions. It was sunk during World War II and is home to many kinds of exotic sea life.

Butterfly Farm: Aruba’s Butterfly Farm is home to hundreds of exotic butterflies who fly freely within large meshed enclosures. Witness all stages of their life cycle and with guidance, handle these tiny creatures.

What To Eat: Some of the best and most diverse local cuisine in the Caribbean, the cuisine is mostly influenced by the Netherlands and other parts of Europe, South America, and the Caribbean itself. Try pan bati (a pancake-like bread) or keshi yena (a baked medley of Gouda cheese, spices, and meat with a heavy brown sauce). Popular seafood options include red snapper, mahi mahi and grouper.

What To Shop: Best buys include fine crystal, leather goods and clothing. Hours are generally Monday through Saturday 9:00am to 6:00pm.

Have you been in Aruba? Did you like it? What would you recommend us? Don’t forget to drop me a comment! I would be super glad to read it and reply!